1869 Proof Nickel Pattern - J-683

Coin Details

Auction Record

$7,638 PR65 04-26-2017 Heritage Auctions

Description

This proof nickel pattern from 1869 begins the Shield five-cent denomination's experimental program under new Chief Engraver William Barber. The Shield nickel had been in production for three years, with the No Rays reverse firmly established as the standard design. Barber inherited a denomination with a proven design framework and a substantial body of prior experimental data from over fifty pattern varieties produced during 1866-1868. The 1869 program, comprising nine proof varieties plus suffix variants, reflects Barber's continued interest in refining the denomination.

Rarity Notes

R.6. Approximately 15-20 examples estimated.

Cross References

Pollock-3719